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Otosclerosis (Otospongiosis) Pronounced: ot-oh-scle-ROW-sis by Michelle Badash, MS En Español (Spanish Version) Definition Otosclerosis occurs when abnormal new bone forms in the inner ear. This growth prevents proper functioning of other ear structures. This condition is a common cause of hearing loss. The Inner Ear © 2011 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. Causes The cause of otosclerosis is still unknown. However, otosclerosis tends to run in families, and may be hereditary. Otosclerosis has also been linked to hormonal changes, especially pregnancy, and viral infections. Risk Factors A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for otosclerosis include: Age: late teens through late 40s Family history of otosclerosis Sex: female Race: Caucasian or Asian Drinking nonfluoridated water: Some studies suggest that nonfluoridated water may cause a susceptible person to develop otosclerosis Page 1 of 3 Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved. Pregnancy: may accelerate symptoms Symptoms Gradual hearing loss is the main symptom of otosclerosis. Hearing loss may be of two types: Conductive—involving the small bones of the inner ear Sensorineural—involving the following structures: Cochlea—the sensory organ in the inner ear The major nerve pathway (8th cranial nerve) and/or area of the brain responsible for hearing Early in the disease, you may first notice trouble hearing low-pitched sounds or whispers. Other symptoms may include: Dizziness Balance problems Tinnitus or sensation of ringing, roaring, or buzzing in the ear Diagnosis The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include: Hearing tests by an audiologist Computed tomography (CT) scan—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the ear and head Examination of the middle ear at the time of surgery Treatment Treatments may include: Hearing Aid Hearing aids may be effective for conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Surgery In many cases, a procedure called a stapedectomy may improve hearing. The purpose of this operation is to replace the diseased bone with an artificial device that can transmit sound waves to the inner ear. Stapedectomy is very effective and frequently returns hearing to a near normal level. Oral Treatment Fluoride tablets are sometimes prescribed to stabilize the condition and prevent further sensorineural hearing loss. However, this treatment remains controversial and unproven. Prevention Page 2 of 3 Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved. Drinking fluoridated water may help prevent otosclerosis in people who are susceptible. There are no other known ways of preventing this condition. RESOURCES: American Academy of Audiology http://www.audiology.org/ American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery http://www.entnet.org/ American Speech-Language-Hearing Association http://www.asha.org/ CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Family Physician http://www.cfpc.ca/ Canadian Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery http://www.entcanada.org/ REFERENCES: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University Medical School website. Available at: http://www.oto-hns.northwestern.edu/ . National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health website. Available at: http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/ . Last reviewed September 2011 by Elie Edmond Rebeiz, MD, FACS Last Updated: 9/1/2011 Page 3 of 3 Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved.